The Buffalo Bills’ first preseason game against the New York Giants was marked by the absence of starting running back James Cook from actual gameplay. Despite suiting up in full uniform and even taking part in 11-on-11 drills during warmups, Cook never saw the field once the game began.
Instead, he remained on the sidelines wearing a beanie in place of his helmet. His decision came amid a contract dispute that has also kept him out of the last four practices in six days.
McDermott, Agent Address Cook’s Holdout as Contract Talks Remain at Standstill
Head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that he had a productive discussion with Cook the day before the game. They reached an understanding that Cook would participate in warmups but refrain from playing due to the ongoing negotiations.
McDermott made it clear he wanted Cook to take snaps but respected his stance, emphasizing that “nothing has changed” in the situation. He declined to go into details, preferring to shift focus toward the players who participated in the game.
James Cook (NFL)Cook’s agent, Zac Hiller, defended his client’s commitment to Buffalo, insisting that Cook “only wants to play for the Bills” and expressing hope for a quick resolution.
The running back, now in the final year of his rookie deal, remains the lone member of his 2022 draft class without an extension, even as teammates like Khalil Shakir, Terrel Bernard, Christian Benford, Greg Rousseau, and Josh Allen have secured new contracts. General manager Brandon Beane acknowledged the stalemate, noting that “it takes two” to finalize a deal and pointing out that contract holdouts are unprecedented during his tenure.
Bills Adapt Without Star RB as Contract Dispute Casts Shadow on Preseason Prep
With Cook sidelined, the Bills’ preseason lineup still featured many of their projected starters, though quarterback Josh Allen and several injured players were held out. Backup QB Mitch Trubisky led the offense, handing first-team reps to Ray Davis and Ty Johnson.
Allen later praised Cook’s talent, calling him “one of the best running backs in the league,” while also recognizing the chance for other backs to gain valuable experience during the holdout.
Cook’s absence looms large given his breakout 2024 season, when he tied a team record with 16 rushing touchdowns and totaled 18 scores overall. His contributions accounted for nearly half of Buffalo’s offensive snaps, underscoring his central role in the offense.
With the regular season approaching, the Bills now face mounting pressure to resolve their contract situation and ensure one of their most productive playmakers is on the field when the games start to count.
